Discover how Kuils River's 'Guitar Man' is transforming music education for beginners

A new book by Eddy Strings, better known as ‘guitar man,’ is coming to the shelves to make learning music easier and more enjoyable for beginners.

The Guitar 101: A Colorful Journey for Beginners book by the 35-year-old Kuils River resident will launch next month.

Each chapter shares step-by-step guidance, exercises, and illustrations designed to empower beginners to develop their skills and creativity at their own pace.

“It’s a beginner-friendly guide that introduces a new, visual way of learning guitar; developed from years of teaching students who often did not have instruments at home or who learned better through visual methods. I believe this book can open doors for many young learners and inspire those who might otherwise never have had the chance to play guitar,” he said.

The guitar man said the 79-page book is especially helpful for children with learning challenges or attention difficulties to give them “a fun and inclusive way to experience music.”

He grew up in Belhar Ext 13 where he said music opportunities were rare. He established a music school in 2019 that specialises in personalized and tailored home music lessons for both beginners and experienced guitarists.

He joined a youth group at a local church when he was young, where he met a guitarist who gave him lessons and lent him the instrument. 

“That borrowed guitar became more than just an instrument; it became my identity. People started noticing me walking around with it, and I even got nicknamed ‘Guitar Man.’ Those early experiences gave me a foundation; helped me develop my skills, and gave me the confidence and passion to continue pursuing music,” he said.

His musical journey has taken him overseas to countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he performed and gained international experience before returning home just before the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said that, over the years, he has learned how colour and creativity can help beginners learn music better, regardless of their age or background.

The book will be available in both print and digital formats at this link. The book launch will take place on Sunday, November 2 at 5pm, in the Christ Culture Church at 62 Carlisle Street, Paarden Eiland.

For more information, you can contact Mr Strings at 072 939 6076.